The Labour Government formally recognised the State of Palestine in September 2025. We did so alongside international allies, making it clear that progress towards peace was long overdue, that the ongoing suffering in Gaza must be alleviated and that the remaining hostages must be released.
Following significant pressure from the United States, Israel and Hamas finally came to terms on a ceasefire in the Autumn 2025 – this made the fighting stop, and also secured the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. This was a massive relief – particularly given that humanitarian aid is finally flowing into Gaza. The civilian population of Gaza have endured unimaginable suffering over these past two years, and it has often felt like there was no light at the end of the tunnel. I share the enormous relief at the end of the fighting, but I am also clear that we need to double down on efforts to deliver a lasting peace that provides peace, dignity and equality for Palestinian and Israeli civilians.
Britain’s actions, including recognising a Palestinian state alongside our allies, helped lead to the historic New York declaration and agreement signed in Egypt. We must also recognise the tireless diplomatic efforts of Middle Eastern states who have been critical in reaching this first step in securing a lasting peace. The agreement in the region must continue to be implemented in full, without delay, and must be accompanied by the immediate lifting of any remaining restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza and return of the hostages who have tragically died in captivity.
Going forward, we must seize this once in a generation chance to bring a terrible chapter in history, finally, to a close. Britain is fully committed to playing a key role in the rebuilding of Gaza and will be actively working with our partners to secure a stable future for the region where a safe and secure Israel sits alongside a viable and independent Palestinian state.
The UK strongly condemns the Israeli Security Cabinet’s decision to expand Israeli control over the West Bank. The major changes to land, enforcement, and administrative powers proposed in the West Bank will harm efforts to advance peace and stability. The UK has been clear: any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unacceptable and would be inconsistent with international law. We call on Israel to reverse these decisions immediately.
I know that many people have been concerned about the stability of the ceasefire, and I would like to assure you that the UK remains committed to peace. We welcome the announcement of the Palestinian National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, an important step in implementing the peace plan and putting Palestinians at the heart of efforts to recover and rebuild. We call for the swift implementation of phase two of the peace plan as set out in Security Council Resolution 2803, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the decommissioning of Hamas’ weapons, the deployment of the ISF, and a clear timeline for transition of governance from the Board of Peace to a reformed Palestinian Authority.
Critically we must also see urgent action to address the still catastrophic humanitarian situation. The UN reports that at least nine infants have died of hypothermia this winter, including a three-month-old baby. This is completely unconscionable, especially when lifesaving shelter and medical supplies remain at the border, blocked by Israeli authorities. We welcome Israel’s commitment to partially open the Rafah crossing, but this is not enough. Rafah and all crossings must be fully opened to allow life-saving humanitarian supplies to enter at scale.
The UK condemns Israel’s egregious attacks against UNRWA’s compound in East Jerusalem and its restrictions on the work of international NGOs. These are the backbone of the humanitarian response, providing $1 billion of funding annually, and without them, Palestinians will face yet more suffering. We call on Israel to fulfil its humanitarian commitments under the 20 Point Peace Plan and its obligations under international law.
I’ll be continuing to pay close attention to events in the region, and I’d like to reiterate my thanks to local residents for their advocacy on this issue. Whilst I’m relieved that the fragile ceasefire appears to be enduring and that the UK has taken the historic step of recognising Palestinian statehood, we must remember that there is a huge amount more to do.